Manager Phil Parkinson admitted his interest in the player after an impressive stint in West Yorkshire, and thus it comes as little surprise to see the 20-year-old being invited back to the club.

Agnew is out of contract this summer at the Stadium of Light and, after making just a single substitute appearance for the first team in the FA Cup, he is unlikely to see his deal renewed.

Go down to come back up

Whilst Agnew's chance at Sunderland has not worked out, there is still a chance for him to make it at the top level. Many top stars have dropped down a level to go back up, and a switch to Bradford would offer him the opportunity to do the same.

The Bantams have made a name for themselves as a club that can help young players settle too, be it on loan or on a permanent deal.

Sunderland star Jordan Pickfordspent last season at Valley Parade and certainly made the most of it, whilst players such as Stephen Darby, who joined from Liverpoolon a free, has established himself as a model of consistency whilst donning the captain's armband at the club.

Agnew will be hoping to settle just as well in West Yorkshire, if a move does materialise, and impress on the pitch at the same time.

Agnew looks set to leave Wearside this summer. | Photo: Sports Mole

Time to move on

The under-21's skipper is not the only player who could move on from Sunderland's academy this summer.

Martin Smith, of whom big things were expected, could leave this year after spending a week on trial at Carlisle United. The League Two outfit are continuing to monitor his situation, which an unnamed Dutch side are also understood to be watching too, according to the Sunderland Echo.